Robert Morris University furloughing employees due to COVID-19 pandemic

MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Robert Morris University announced Wednesday that it is furloughing several staff members due to the “financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

In a release, Vice President of Public Relations Jonathan Potts said the impact from coronavirus could grow to $10 million by the end of 2020.

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Much of the revenue loss comes from housing and dining refunds, along with canceled sporting events and concerts.

Because of that, the university announced several changes, including:

• RMU furloughing staff “whose workload has significantly diminished” because of COVID-19, including coaches and staff in athletics
• Eliminating some staff positions
• President Chris Howard and all members of RMU’s cabinet will take a 5% salary reduction
• Staff raises withheld (subject to exceptions required by collective bargaining agreements)

Potts said in the release that furloughed employees will continue to receive any university benefits they were entitled to before the furlough. RMU will also cover each employee’s health insurance and other premiums.

Those employees will be called back to work “on an as-needed basis as the university gears up for the fall semester.”

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